Black Identity Crisis In W. E. B. Du Bois The Souls Of Black Folk

An Account of the Black Identity Crisis During the Reconstruction Era: W.E.B. Du Bois’ The Souls of Black Folk
One of the most exemplary works of the Reconstruction Era in American Literature is The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B Du Bois. This book holds a pivotal position in the framework of how the black identity is formed in society. In Souls, Du Bois proposes that “the problem of the twentieth century is the problem of the color line.” The color line is the hierarchical divide between races that ensures white inferiority. The color line strengthened and thrived off of slavery, survived the eradication of slavery, and has unfortunately taken new formations in society –such as the mass incarceration of African-American males. As an avid supporter of intellectualism, Du Bois urged the black community to embark on an education, but denotes distinct issues that may prevent African-Americans from excelling in their careers and as a respective community when compared to their white counterparts. The concept of “the veil” is a psychological representation of white people’s inability to see Blacks as true Americans; thus creating a double consciousness or psycho-social division among members of the black community, while also allowing for the systemic political and

It is eminent to note how Du Bois credits the strength of African-Americans to show utter resilience as they are constantly belittled by their peers. As a solution to combat these injustices, Du Bois popularizes the term “Talented Tenth.” The talented tenth is a term that advocates for the higher education of African Americans. It is up to the Negro to save himself by achieving a higher intellectual status and